Elk Ragu Pasta - Elk Ridge Farm
Elk Ragu Pasta - Elk Ridge Farm

Elk Ragu Pasta

A rich, slow-simmered elk ragu made with tender ground or shredded elk, tomatoes, red wine, and herbs, served over pasta. This classic-style sauce highlights the bold flavour of lean Canadian elk meat and is perfect for hearty, comforting meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

Ingredients:
🥩 Ragu
  • 2 lb elk ground or shredded
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
🍝 For Serving
  • Cooked pasta tagliatelle, pappardelle, or fettuccine
  • Grated parmesan optional
  • Fresh parsley optional

Method
 

Instructions:
    Sauté Base
    1. Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
    Brown Elk
    1. Add elk, breaking it up. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
    Build Flavour
    1. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to deepen flavour.
    Deglaze
    1. Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 3–5 minutes.
    Add Tomatoes
    1. Add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir well.
    Simmer
    1. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
    Finish & Serve
    1. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta and top with parmesan and fresh parsley.

    Notes

    Slow simmering develops rich flavour. Elk is lean, so avoid overcooking early — let the sauce do the work. This ragu pairs best with wide pasta like pappardelle.
    Ground Elk in Orillia by Elk Ridge Farm

    Ground Elk $60.73/KG - ($27.55/LB)

    Juicy, lean, and versatile — perfect for burgers, tacos, meatballs, or chili. Lower fat than beef with a deliciously rich flavour that makes everyday meals feel gourmet.